In a major conservation milestone, the Punjab Wildlife Department has kicked off its first comprehensive wildlife survey in partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Spanning 18 months, the initiative aims to assess the biodiversity and wildlife population across the province, providing critical data for conservation and policymaking.
Chief Wildlife Ranger Mudassir Riaz Malik emphasized the survey’s importance, calling wildlife a “cornerstone of ecological balance.” He said the effort would not only map species and habitats but also help identify endangered animals for urgent protection, contributing to both a provincial “Red Book” and the IUCN’s global database.
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The survey will focus on native species like the urial, chinkara, nilgai, hog deer, Indus dolphin, pangolin, and houbara bustard. Modern technology including GPS, drones, and camera traps will be used, alongside the support of biodiversity experts, university researchers, students, and NGOs.
IUCN’s Asim Jamal praised Punjab for leading the region with a “scientifically organized” survey. A steering committee formed by the Chief Minister will oversee progress and ensure transparent monitoring.
